Saturday, December 27, 2008

Pictured is the same snowy magic that felled the tree that knocked out electricity to our power grid for six days. We now have electricity, heat, and the wonderful internet back running. Thanks Tanya for sending me your good juju.

Saturday, December 20, 2008

As you can see, no skyrise buildings in Salem. As a matter of fact. the top of the steeple in the background makes Salem First United Methodist Church the tallest building at 188 ft. The Capitol Building, the landmark just left of the steeple, is the runner up at 173 ft.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Oregon's in a bit of a cold spell. Snow and chill are expected to last through the week. Schools will probably close for the week, travel around town has been treacherous and I spent today scanning holiday catalogs waiting to see if I would be picked to serve on a jury...I wasn't.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Before being moved to its current location, this building played home to Salem's Post Office. It is currently used as the Laboratory for the Excercise Science Department. Sometimes you can see some rather bizarre activities through the windows as you pass.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

An array of musical performances and Christmas...oops! holiday decorations can be seen at the Capitol from Dec 1st - 23rd. Since I work within walking distance, I've had the pleasure of being entertained by the talent of the various local school choirs during my lunch hour.

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

This Dr. Seussian playground normally swarming with fun-loving children during warmer months seemed very empty (me being the only one there) yesterday. Located in Bush's Pasture Park, a 90-acre park that is a hive of activity for numerous Salem events and activities, visiting Bush House Museum and playing in the Crooked House to name a few.

Monday, December 8, 2008

Built in 1878, this house belonged to Asahel Bush and stayed with his family for 75 years. Bush founded Salem's newspaper, The Statesman Journal (I'm sure he'd be disgusted with it's current lack of content and inflated price tag, which lends itself to its more common nickname, The Statesman Urinal.) and Ladd & Bush Bank. Efforts by the City of Salem and Salem's Art Association have kept this house, the Bush's possessions in the house and the surrounding grounds intact. Yesterday, the Art Association held an open house and extended free admission to the public. Normally, admisson is $4.00/adult, which is a very reasonable exchange for the wealth of historical information and beautiful interior decor provided.

Saturday, December 6, 2008

These kids are waiting for the green light to start their race. They actually really got to moving at high speeds. The races take place in an area that normally houses livestock during the State Fair. Other races featured kage karts and 1/4 midgets.

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Bird's eye view of the quartet entertaining guests at the "Something Red" Art Walk Reception. The Art Walk highlights the work of local artists in downtown galleries and retailers. The artwork will remain on display through Dec 31. I've seen a handful of pieces and they are indeed "Something Red".

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Oddly enough, we've been experiencing a relatively dry season. Ritual late November skiing, storm watching and jumping in puddles have all been postponed. Until the clouds open up and the temperatures drop, I'll continue to be punished with beautiful sunsets like this. Darn.